Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 15gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid Receptor Agonist
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
May 1958
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Triamcinolone cream is a medicine that helps reduce redness, swelling, and itching caused by various skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It's a type of steroid that works on your skin to calm down inflammation.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Use this medication only as directed, and continue to use it even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, avoiding the mouth, nose, and eyes, as it may cause burning.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication, and make sure it is dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Do not apply the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Important Precautions
Do not use bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants on the treated area, as this may increase the amount of medication absorbed into your body.
Do not use this medication to treat diaper rash.
Avoid applying the medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures.
Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in a drug take-back program in your area.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Use this medication only as directed, and continue to use it even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, avoiding the mouth, nose, and eyes, as it may cause burning.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication, and make sure it is dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Do not apply the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Important Precautions
Do not use bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants on the treated area, as this may increase the amount of medication absorbed into your body.
Do not use this medication to treat diaper rash.
Avoid applying the medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures.
Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in a drug take-back program in your area.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Wash your hands before and after applying the cream.
- Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected skin area, gently rubbing it in until it disappears.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Avoid applying the cream to your eyes, mouth, or inside your nose.
- Do not use on your face, groin, or armpits unless directed by your doctor.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially on children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Triamcinolone 0.5% Cream 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.5% Oint 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Ointment 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Ointment 80gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Cream 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 30gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Cream 454gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 80gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 80gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 454gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 454gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Ointment 454gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Cream 80gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 80gm
- Triamcinolone Topical Spray 100gm
- Triamcinolone Topical Spray 63gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Lotion 60ml
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 30gm
- Triamcinolone 55mcg Nasalsp (120)
- Triamcinolone Ace 40mg/ml, 1ml
- Triamcinolone Topical Spray 63gm
- Triamcinolone Topical Spray 100gm
- Triamcinolone Ace 40mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Triamcinolone Ace 0.05% Oint 430gm
- Triamcinolone Ace 40mg/ml, 5ml
- Triamcin Ace 40mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Lotion 60ml
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Lotion 60ml
- Triamcinolone 400mg/10ml Inj, 10ml
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 454gm
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily, depending on severity and formulation.
Dose Range:
2 - 4 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
eczema:
Apply 2-3 times daily
psoriasis:
Apply 2-4 times daily
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Use with caution; apply a thin film once daily for short durations. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Child:
Apply a thin film 1-2 times daily for short durations. Avoid occlusive dressings and large surface areas.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film 2-4 times daily, similar to adult dosing, but monitor closely for systemic effects.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical use.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Triamcinolone acetonide is a synthetic corticosteroid that exerts anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions. It acts by inducing phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, lipocortins, which control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor, arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption; varies with skin integrity, vehicle, and occlusion.
Tmax:
Not applicable for topical systemic absorption; local effect is rapid.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical administration.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not precisely quantified for topical systemic absorption; distributed throughout body if absorbed.
ProteinBinding:
Not precisely quantified for topical systemic absorption; generally high for corticosteroids.
CnssPenetration:
Limited, unless significant systemic absorption occurs.
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not precisely quantified for topical systemic absorption; systemic corticosteroids have variable half-lives.
Clearance:
Not precisely quantified for topical systemic absorption.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (metabolites), some biliary.
Unchanged:
Minimal
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours for anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects.
PeakEffect:
Within days of consistent application.
DurationOfAction:
Varies with frequency of application, typically 12-24 hours per application.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, unusual thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath
Signs of a weak adrenal gland: severe nausea or vomiting, severe dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome: weight gain in the upper back or abdomen, moon face, severe headache, or slow wound healing
Irritation at the site of application
Skin changes: acne, stretch marks, slow healing, or excessive hair growth
Changes in skin color
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people experience no side effects or only mild ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning sensation
Itching
* Dry skin
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, unusual thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath
Signs of a weak adrenal gland: severe nausea or vomiting, severe dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome: weight gain in the upper back or abdomen, moon face, severe headache, or slow wound healing
Irritation at the site of application
Skin changes: acne, stretch marks, slow healing, or excessive hair growth
Changes in skin color
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people experience no side effects or only mild ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning sensation
Itching
* Dry skin
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Signs of skin infection (pus, spreading redness, fever)
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation that worsens after application
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, or stretch marks developing in the treated area
- Any signs of systemic side effects like unusual weight gain, swelling in the face, or increased thirst/urination (rare with proper topical use)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, any of its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any health problems you have, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, any of its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any health problems you have, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Adhere to the prescribed duration of use and do not exceed the recommended treatment period.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment. Exercise caution when applying this medication to a large area of skin, and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Using this medication too frequently can exacerbate your skin condition. If the patient is a child, use this medication with caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this population. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment. Exercise caution when applying this medication to a large area of skin, and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Using this medication too frequently can exacerbate your skin condition. If the patient is a child, use this medication with caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this population. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use, especially over large areas or under occlusion, can lead to systemic effects such as Cushing's syndrome (moon face, buffalo hump, central obesity), hyperglycemia, and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
- Local symptoms include severe skin atrophy, striae, and telangiectasias.
What to Do:
Discontinue the medication gradually under medical supervision. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison control advice.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify any pre-existing skin damage or infection.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Local skin reactions (e.g., atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, burning, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, maceration of the skin, secondary infection)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit, or as symptoms arise.
Target: Absence of new or worsening reactions.
Action Threshold: If severe or persistent reactions occur, discontinue use and reassess.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, glucosuria, HPA axis suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusive dressings.
Target: Normal adrenal function, normal glucose levels.
Action Threshold: If suspected, perform appropriate diagnostic tests (e.g., ACTH stimulation test, plasma cortisol, urinary free cortisol) and consider tapering or discontinuing therapy.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Increased redness, swelling, or pain at application site (signs of infection)
- Skin thinning or bruising
- Stretch marks (striae)
- Acne-like breakouts
- Increased hair growth in treated areas
- Changes in skin color
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Weight gain, especially in the face or trunk
- Increased thirst or urination
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Avoid large amounts, prolonged use, or application to large surface areas.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for fetal harm, though systemic absorption is low.
Second Trimester:
Similar risks as first trimester; monitor for systemic absorption.
Third Trimester:
Similar risks; potential for HPA axis suppression in neonate if significant maternal absorption occurs.
Lactation
Considered low risk with limited topical use. Use with caution. Avoid applying to the breast or nipple area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk of adverse effects in breastfed infants due to minimal systemic absorption by the mother. Monitor infant for any unusual symptoms.
Pediatric Use
Children are more susceptible to systemic toxicity from topical corticosteroids due to a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio and immature skin barrier. HPA axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, and intracranial hypertension have been reported. Use the least potent effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Geriatric Use
Generally safe for use in the elderly. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could increase the risk of local side effects like skin atrophy. Monitor for skin integrity.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Triamcinolone 0.1% cream is a medium-potency topical corticosteroid, suitable for various inflammatory dermatoses.
- Advise patients to apply a thin layer and rub it in completely; 'less is more' with topical steroids.
- Warn patients against using it on the face, groin, or axillae unless specifically instructed by a physician, due to higher risk of side effects in these sensitive areas.
- Educate patients on the signs of skin atrophy (thinning, bruising, shiny appearance) and to report them.
- For chronic conditions, consider intermittent therapy or 'weekend therapy' to minimize side effects and prevent tachyphylaxis.
- Always rule out fungal or bacterial infections before initiating corticosteroid therapy, as steroids can worsen these conditions.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, fluocinonide, clobetasol)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for steroid-sparing effect
- Topical phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors (e.g., crisaborole)
- Emollients and moisturizers for barrier repair
- Antihistamines for pruritus
- Systemic therapies for severe cases (e.g., methotrexate, biologics)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 per 15gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.